Brilliant Alternative Uses For Super Glue
Super glue is known for fixing broken items in seconds, but its usefulness stretches far beyond mending a cracked mug. It can help with tasks all over the house, from quick clothing fixes to minor car repairs. It is inexpensive, easy to keep on hand, and works on a huge variety of materials. Here are just a few of the secret handy uses super glue has.
1. Seal Small Cuts
While it is not a substitute for medical care, super glue can be used to seal minor cuts or small nicks when you don’t have a bandage on hand. The glue acts as a barrier, keeping dirt and moisture out while the skin heals. Only use it on clean, shallow cuts, never on deep wounds, burns, or near the eyes. Also, always make sure the glue is medical-grade if it will touch skin.
2. Prevent Fraying on Fabric
If the edges of your clothes or a certain fabric are starting to fray, a tiny dab of super glue can stop it instantly. It works much faster than sewing and is ideal for small areas. Hold the threads in place, add a drop of glue, and let it dry completely before handling. This will keep items looking neat and tidy for much longer without complicated or detailed repairs.
3. Reinforce Loose Screws
Adding a small drop of super glue to loose screw threads before tightening them can help them grip whatever it is they’re being drilled into, strengthening the connection. This is especially useful when wood or plastic threads have worn down over time. Just make sure the screw is positioned correctly before the glue sets, as it will bond very quickly.
4. Repair Damaged Fingernails
If you have a nail that has cracked or split, super glue can help hold it together until it grows out. Apply a small amount over the break and smooth it with a nail buffer once it’s dried. You can also reinforce it further by placing a small piece of tissue or tea bag paper over the glue before it hardens. This helps make the nail less likely to snag or tear further.
5. Create a Non-Slip Grip
Slippery handles on tools, cookware, and stationary can be made easier to hold by adding a light layer of super glue and sprinkling fine sand or salt over it. Once it dries, the surface will have a textured grip that makes it safer to hold and use. This works especially well for items you use outdoors or in wet conditions, where grip is more important.
6. Patch a Leaky Hose Temporarily
If your garden or vacuum hose has developed a small hole, super glue can be a quick, effective fix until you replace it. Dry the area completely, then apply glue over and around the damaged spot. For extra reinforcement, press a piece of strong tape or rubber over the glue while it dries. This fix won’t last forever, but it can buy you more time before a full replacement.
7. Stop Wood from Splitting
When small cracks or splinters appear in wooden furniture or décor, adding some super glue can stop them from spreading. The glue seeps into the crack and bonds the fibers together, helping to stave off any further damage. Once the glue has dried, you can sand the area lightly and stain or paint it to match the surrounding wood, if you need to.
8. Strengthen Shoelace Tips
Shoelace tips often split or fall apart, making them much harder to thread. To fix them, twist the end of the lace tightly, apply a small amount of super glue, and shape it with your (gloved) fingers while it sets. Once the glue fully hardens, you’ll be able to thread it just like before, keeping them functional for much longer.. The same method works for hoodie drawstrings!
9. Fix Loose Jewelry Stone
If a gemstone or decorative bead is starting to come loose in a piece of jewelry, super glue can help hold it in place. Apply a small drop into the setting and press the stone firmly until it bonds. Use a minimal amount so the glue does not seep onto the visible surface. This is best for costume jewelry, as fine jewelry should only be repaired professionally.
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Super glue is more than just a quick fix for broken items. With a little creativity, it can solve problems in the kitchen, workshop, garden, and beyond. It saves time, prevents small issues from becoming big repairs, and extends the life of everyday items. By keeping a tube in your home, car, or tool kit, you’ll always have an endlessly handy tool at the ready!
Daniel Mitchell
